The scientists also found hormonal changes that occur due to weight gain were likely to make individuals feel more hungry than they would otherwise. In turn, the greater calorie intake would cause them to experience inadequate sleep.

Commenting on the findings Dr Weighall said: "With talk of a ‘sugar tax’ we are all increasingly aware of the negative effects of sugar on the nation’s health, especially in relation to weight gain and obesity.

"However, scientists have also shown that our diet can be important for sleep too. There is evidence that both adults and children who eat high calorie diets are more likely to sleep less."

She said: "What is interesting from the research is that we see how quite quickly the relationship between sugar and sleep can become a negative cycle - with what we put into the body disrupting our sleep patterns, we are then kept awake and our body begins to crave all the things which keep us awake.

"Sugar can cause more restlessness and hyperactivity, especially if you’re a sensitive sleeper so best to minimise it.

"I would encourage people to break the cycle with a low sugar, or better still sugar free, drink before bed. If you have a hot drink before you go to sleep, it's best to make it with almond milk, which is high in tryptophan, which is proven to improve sleep."